From cultural discoveries to animal encounters to just plain fun and amusement, the Smoky Mountains are filled with fun and unusual adventures that the whole family will enjoy. Read on to discover ten of the most quirky and unique things to do in the Smokies!
Synchronous Fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Every summer – for a couple of extraordinary weeks – the secret world of fireflies opens up under cover of darkness, and we mere humans have a rare opportunity to observe one of nature’s wildest nighttime displays. The only synchronous species of firefly (out of at least 19) that live in the Elkmont region of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park begin to flash in unison, and you can watch it happen up close and personal, like an immersive art show.
It typically happens during a two-week window in late May to mid-June each year. Tickets are sold in advance, and event dates are announced on the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website in late spring of each year. It’s a delightful way to infuse a little magic into your visit to the Smoky Mountains and is a truly unique thing to do here.
Wheels Through Time
Get transported back in time when you visit the Wheels Through Time museum in Maggie Valley, NC. From two wheels to four, discover how we humans get around the Smoky Mountains. With over 300 classic and rare motorcycles spanning America’s transportation past, this museum celebrates all the ways we get around and will definitely get your engine revving.
Perfect for any kind of bike or car enthusiast, you’ll be wowed by the shine of the chrome and the polish of the paint job on rides from big names like Harley Davidson, Indian, Excelsior, Henderson, Crocker, and so many more! Don’t miss this incredible gem hidden away in the Smokies. Then visit the Smoky Mountain museum directory for a more extensive list of museums and attractions, including fun and quirky spots like Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Alcatraz East Crime Museum, and the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum.
Experience Cataloochee Elk Viewing near Maggie Valley
One of the most awe-inspiring and unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains is watching the Cataloochee Valley’s exquisite elk herd as it roams and grazes in the wild. Several centuries ago, elk were commonplace in our peaceful mountain valley, but they were eliminated due to over-hunting and loss of habitat. In 2001, 52 elk were reintroduced to the Cataloochee Valley, and now the herd has grown to approximately 200. Don’t miss an opportunity to see those amazing creatures, but remember that it is illegal to knowingly come within 50 yards of an elk. So, keep your distance and enjoy these stunning animals responsibly from a respectful distance with binoculars.
Llama Train at Trillium Gap Trail
For years now, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has used llamas to pack supplies on the trail up to Mt. LeConte, the third highest peak in the park. With no roads to the top, these delightful animals carry fresh supplies up and take waste down. They may not appreciate the views the way we humans do, but they are rewarded with delicious treats – like pancakes – for their hard work.
The best chance you have to get a peek at the llamas doing their thing is to arrive no later than 6 am on Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Take the Roaring Fork Nature Trail about 2-3 miles in, and you’ll come to the trailhead for Trillium Gap. This will take you to Grotto Falls (a gorgeous hike), where you can see the llamas trekking along the trail.
Smoky Mountain Craft Trails
No trip to the Smoky Mountains would be complete without exploring the amazing handmade arts and crafts created by local artists – and you may even decide to bring a piece of the Smokies home with you.
On the Tennessee side of the Smokies, you’ll find one of the largest communities of independent artisans in the United States – the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. With so many gifted and brilliant artists, you’ll be amazed by the diversity of handmade crafts on offer. Discover everything from pottery and ceramics to musical instruments to quilts to wood carvings and so much more.
Over on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area has developed an incredible way for visitors and locals alike to connect with these representations of Appalachian history and culture. Through a network of craft trails that you can filter by interest and region, you can explore over 200 craft sites, including galleries, shops, studios, and art events. Curated itineraries will also give you options for local food, wineries, breweries, music venues, outdoor activities, and stunning scenic mountain views.
